No Cole comfort for Arsenal

Arsenal FC left-back Ashley Cole is likely to be out of action for several weeks after undergoing surgery to correct a long-standing hernia problem today.

Season-long injuryThe club announced on their official website that the English international defender had been suffering with the injury all season, but that it had worsened after Arsenal's 0-0 draw at AFC Ajax in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night. Cole was examined by the club's medical staff on Thursday morning, who decided to proceed with the operation.

Important gamesCole is epected to miss Arsenal's remaining Champions League second group stage matches against AS Roma and Valencia CF, as well as the FA Cup quarter-final tie against Chelsea FC. He must also be doubtful for England's next UEFA EURO 2004™ qualifier in Liechtenstein. The 22-year-old has won 16 caps for his country.

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